Things to Consider When Buying Used Respiratory Equipment

Respiratory equipment like BiPAPs (bi-level positive airway pressure), CPAPs (continuous positive airway pressure), ventilators and oxygen concentrators are used in hospitals, clinics and by patients (who use respirators at home) to assist patients who cannot breathe easily. Because this equipment is expensive, most individuals and small to mid-size hospitals and clinics may be unable to afford new respiratory equipment. In these situations, buying used respiratory equipment can be a better deal.

Though purchasing used respiratory equipment is cheaper, buying the wrong equipment can cause many problems. It is therefore important to gain knowledge of the product before you purchase one. Here are a few questions to consider that will help you to buy high quality and reliable used respiratory equipment.

Does the equipment meet your needs and can it be upgraded?
Before you start searching for used respiratory equipment, be clear on your needs. Consider a few questions like, why you need the equipment and where you will be using the equipment? Does the equipment have all the features you are looking for? Being clear about your needs up front will help you find the right equipment. Ask the seller whether the respiratory equipment can be upgraded. Buy the equipment only if it can be upgraded, otherwise you may be spending money on equipment that will quickly become obsolete.

Is the equipment equipped with the required hardware/software?
Ensure the equipment you are purchasing has all the necessary hardware, software and other features you are looking for. You can also have a professional inspect and check whether the equipment has the required hardware and software for your needs.

Choose a brand that offers service centers near your location
There are many manufacturers who make respiratory equipment. Choose a brand whose service centers and technicians are available for routine maintenance and repairs. Also make sure that parts are available for replacement in case of damage or failure.

Look for options and compare
You can find used respiratory equipment offline and online. Consider all options where you can buy the equipment and gather the information. Having more options will help you in finding a better deal. Compare each piece of equipment on functionality, technology and price. Consider only equipment that meets your needs and that falls within your budget.

How has the equipment been used?
After deciding on a few options, inspect the equipment physically and make sure it is in a good working condition. Especially if you are purchasing used equipment online, don't forget to inspect it physically before paying for it. Ask the seller about the history of the equipment. Also ask the seller, how many previous owners have used it, where the equipment was purchased from, and is the equipment up to date on preventive maintenance?

Bring a trusted professional who can carefully inspect the equipment and will assist you with determining the equipment's value.

Is the equipment worth buying?
Learn more about the equipment before you pay for it. Ask the seller how long that equipment has been used, how many times it has been repaired, and if it has a warranty? These questions will help you give clarity on whether you are purchasing the right equipment or not.

Be sure to ask for the documentation related to the respiratory equipment you are planning to buy. Make sure you request industry certifications, insurance details, quality credentials and other information that will help you make the decision of what company to purchase from.

Buying used respiratory equipment is a great way to save money. But if you haven't done your homework, it may cost you more in the long run. Therefore, carefully weigh all your options and needs before making a decision.

Medical Support Products Inc is a respiratory medical supplies dealer and online retailer since 1989. We sell, service and repair ventilators, concentrators, BiPAPs, CPAPs, smart monitors and more. We also buy used respiratory equipment. Our used respiratory equipment is cleaned and ready to use. For more details, please visit www.mspinc.com.