When a high-use patient monitoring device goes down, should you repair or replace it? Feels like the million-dollar question! In most situations, a repair will get your device back in working condition at a fraction of the cost.
Let’s break down how to determine when to repair and when to replace your patient monitoring equipment.
Cost-effective repairs are a good choice
In our experience, repairs are frequently the most cost-effective choice. Often manufacturers push a new model. They may even stop supporting an older model in the hope more customers will upgrade. That doesn’t mean you have to purchase the latest model.
Here at Sage Services, we can repair your existing models until you’re truly ready for an upgrade. Many medical facilities have a replacement schedule and repairing devices is a great way to stick to that schedule.
Don’t feel forced into buying new equipment if your current devices are still in excellent condition. We work with a number of customers to extend the life of their devices.
Even though the OEM isn’t supporting a device, the repair team here at Sage can tackle just about any issue and get your items back in excellent working condition.
When it makes sense to replace your devices
Here’s when you might want to consider replacing a device instead of sending it to us for a repair:
- The device sustained extensive damage so it doesn’t make economic sense to replace it. The industry rule of thumb is to assess whether the repair cost is less than 70-80% of the replacement cost.
- When electronic equipment has been introduced into a wet environment (think, dropped in the toilet). In those situations, it makes sense to replace instead of repair.
- If a device has been recalled or flagged by the FDA, you should replace it.
- Review the age and repair history of a device. If it’s an older device that has been repaired a few times already, it might make more economic sense to invest in a new item.
As you can see, there aren’t too many instances that warrant a full replacement. If you want to extend the life of your devices and save on your equipment budget, repairs are a smart choice.
Choose a high-quality repair partner
Make sure you select a reputable third-party medical device repair partner. You want a team that’s knowledgeable and dependable.
When you’re looking for a repair partner, you want to assess:
- Clinical expertise. Don’t trust your equipment to just anyone. They should have the ongoing training and track record to handle repairs that range from minor to major.
- ISO certifications. You want a team that adheres to industry standards. Each year, we go through an audit to maintain our dual certifications of ISO 9001 and ISO 13485.
- Turnaround times. When a device goes down, you need it repaired and back in action fast. Be sure to ask about the average turnaround time. For comparison, our average is 5-7 business days.
- Customer service. Choose a repair partner willing to go the extra mile. Our sales representatives work closely with customers to ensure a smooth repair process. Our repair team often answers questions over the phone or walks a customer through a repair via a Zoom call.
- Commitment to quality. When it comes to patient care, there’s no room for error. We know lives are on the line. You deserve a repair partner that is as dedicated to your patients as you are.
One of our goals is to help healthcare technology managers like you be efficient with your time and your budget. We know sticking to your equipment budget and your equipment replacement cycle is critical.
Delaying acquisition costs can save a healthcare department upward of $200,000. For a hospital, that number can stretch into the millions. So, let Sage Services repair and extend the life of your patient monitoring devices.
The importance of routine maintenance
Sending your devices out for repair versus trying to handle complicated repairs in-house is another way to save time and money. Your team can focus on your maintenance schedule – another way to keep devices in service longer.
This case study from 2023 highlights the vital importance of regular maintenance and a maintenance strategy. Let your biomed team focus on preventive maintenance and keeping devices in good working order. Partner with our team for repairs and complicated issues that require an extra level of expertise.
And when you’re ready to replace a device or want a few backups on hand, be sure to check out our refurbished equipment program. We sell repaired and fully inspected devices at a fraction of the cost of brand-new ones.
You need medical devices that are safe and dependable. They need to provide accurate readings and work under pressure. Let Sage Services be your repair partner. We’ll fix busted equipment. And we’ll be honest when a device is beyond repair.
We believe you deserve a choice in the marketplace. Don’t feel pressured to buy a new device simply because the manufacturer says it’s time.
Put the Sage Services team to the test.
Submit a repair request form online today: https://sageservicesgroup.com/repair-form/
