As is true with any industry, the tools hospital workers and doctors use exhibit wear as they age. Being prepared for how to handle wear and tear on medical equipment will help you replace medical equipment more efficiently and effectively.

Hospital workers know, the general rule of thumb is to replace medical equipment every seven to ten years. Usually, at this point, new technology will be available or the current equipment needs an upgrade. But, instead of switching to the latest - and often most expensive - technology, some hospitals and private practices will have their current medical equipment repaired or purchase pre-owned equipment.

Repairing your hospital or office's current equipment offers a number of advantages. There are almost no machines that are beyond repair. Before you choose to throw out any medical supply item, think about whether or not it can be repaired. Contacting a company that specializes in medical equipment repair can allow you to properly evaluate your next steps. In many cases, the medical equipment repair company will easily be able to make the device operational again. If the company cannot make the repairs because a part is no longer available, or because the cost to repair the item would be higher than the cost to replace it, the company will be able to properly dispose of the machine. In many cases, there are special protocols for the disposal of batteries and other machine pieces in medical equipment. A hospital that does not follow the protocols can face steep fines!

Repairing your equipment also means familiarity for your staff and nurses. Implementing new technology is expensive! The costs include the actual costs of the medical supply item, as well as the time it takes to retrain your nurses and staff on it. There is always a learning curve with new equipment and new technology. When the medical equipment is first in use, your staff will have questions - even after they have been fully trained on the item. It will take longer for your staff to use this new equipment, which in turn, costs you more money. Your staff will also need to implement new software, which is a very time consuming process, especially for infusion pumps. In all, the implementation of new medical equipment can be an altogether taxing prospect.

When looking for a company to repair your medical equipment, make sure it offers various audits and checks to ensure each model and type of equipment is patient ready. Equipment entering your hospital at "patient ready" status means that the medical supply item has been tested, meets all manufacturer specifications and is ready to be used immediately. Always make sure hard copy documentation is included with each piece of repaired medical equipment shipped to you.

Ask whether the medical equipment repair company is a member of the International Association of Medical Equipment Remarketers (IAMERS). This membership signifies that the company adheres to strict compliance levels with regard to government regulations, quality assurance standards and labeling. IAMERS membership also signifies the member company has agreed in writing to a strict Code of Ethics.

Repairing medical equipment is one of the most cost effective solutions for hospitals and private practices. All equipment ages and will show wear and tear, no matter how well it is kept up. When this eventuality occurs, make sure your staff is prepared to have the equipment repaired - it's the simplest and most cost effective solution!