Sunday, August 4, 2013

A Guide To Buying Used Ophthalmic Equipment

By Lela Perkins


Many optometrists find it challenging to run a successful eye care practice. One reason for this is that ophthalmic technology, equipment and instrumentation keep on changing. Ophthalmic devices are very expensive and it is hard to buy every new device in the market. Fortunately you can get necessary instruments if you consider purchasing used ophthalmic equipment.

Many optometrists are coming to realize the important role that used instruments can play in their practices. Used machines work in a similar manner to new machines but they are more cost effective. Do not let the stigma associated with purchasing second hand instruments deter you from buying them.

Second hand instruments that are inspected by technicians function very well and they can help you reduce the capital demands of your practice. This will leave you with money that you can invest in other areas of your business such as hiring staff and office decor. This is very important especially if you are just starting out.

Office decor can boost the confidence that your clients have about you because it displays your level of professionalism and class. If you are able to hire more employees, you can expand the services you offer. Getting more cost effective instruments gives you the best chance to spread your business capital to cater for various aspects of your eye care practice.

Basically, there are three options to choose from when purchasing second hand instruments. One of them is buying items that another practice has been using. The main disadvantage of this option is that the instruments do not come with a warranty. The second option is buying refurbished instruments and the third one is buying remanufactured instruments. This applies mostly to high end eye care devices, which are reconditioned and placed back into the market.

The process taken to remanufacture devices involves dismantling, repairing and then rebuilding them to make sure that they comply with the specifications of a manufacturer. After this, they are reassembled and then sold at prices that are a little bit lower than those of new instruments. The remanufacturing process is usually done to machines that have been in use for more than two years.

The refurbishing process is usually performed on devices that are not older than two years by either a manufacturer or equipment dealer. It involves the clean up of devices and the replacement of broken or missing components. Unlike remanufacturing, this process does not involve tearing down and rebuilding the devices. Therefore, refurbished instruments may appear to be older than the remanufactured ones.

After deciding which option to use, the next step you should take it to decide where you will make your purchase. There are many professionals who seek for ophthalmic instruments from retiring medical practitioners. These professionals can provide you with high quality second hand instruments for your practice.

You can also search through a number of auctioneering websites to find out whether they stock high quality instruments. When buying these devices, it is wise to ask the seller to provide you with relevant documentation for them. You should also weigh the prices of the used ophthalmic equipment against their quality before making a purchasing decision.




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