Factors To Consider When Renting Medical Equipment

By Paulette Mason


The market for medical equipment is marred with a lot of diversity in terms of quality and price. This, coupled with the drastic decrease in profit margins, has led to profound concern world over. Considering the high initial cost of investment and the level of sophistication of the machines required, practicing medical service is one of the most expensive ventures. However, some practitioners have sorted to renting medical equipment in an effort to cut on the investment. This demands some requisite knowledge on buy versus rent decision, as outlined below.

To begin with, it is worth considering the rental period. Before ordering the equipment, consider the rental period. As a general rule, an equipment that will be in use for a long time is better bought than rented. However, where the device is needed for a short period of time, it is more convenient and economical to rent. The time value of money falls into play when evaluating between a buy and rent options.

The upfront costs and the monthly remittances are worth comparing. The financial standing of the business is thus relevant while making the analysis. Small businesses that have low cash outlay are well served with rental agreements. On the other hand, well established firms having financial muscles are better equipped to buy the equipment. It is a trade off between having to part with a large sum of money at once, or rather make monthly payments that are affordable.

Also, the expenses of maintaining the implement also matters. The efficiency of machines relies in regular repairs and servicing. Maintenance as a factor depends on who is responsible for the expense and the magnitude of the expense. A variety of rental agreements require the rental company to carry out the exercise. These agreements mean that you will be in charge of the repair and maintenance. It is therefore worthwhile to rent equipment having the profound cost of maintenance.

In addition, be sure to put in mind the frequency of use. Some machines are used on a daily basis while others are barely used. Machines that are used more often should be bought. However, for the ones that are hardly used, it is relevant to rent them when their services are needed. This will prevent channeling funds in unproductive, less active investments.

In addition, the amount to be realized from the sale of the gadget also matters. Before upgrading to modern facilities, the old facility has to be sold to pave way and contribute to the financing. A good buy deal should have a reasonable amount as resale value. Selling a system with low resale value is difficult and even expensive.

However, the question of whether to buy or rent also depends on who you are asking. The decision is subjective. Both options have their own advantages and shortcomings. The decision process relies on trading between the negatives and the positives. A strategic decision can be reached at by referring to the circumstances of the firm at a given time.

Simply put, be thorough in your analysis and use the requisite information in reaching the decision. A well informed decision will, out of doubt, be an asset to your business.




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