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items to the original manufacturers for repair, and we've had good
luck. I've never felt they advised buying a new item (rather than fixing) undeservedly.
Right now, I'm looking at a repair, maintenance and purchase contract
with a manufacturer. We'd get flat percentage discounts on all new purchases, a discount on repairs and up to 50% off replacement instruments. We'd be responsible for shipping to the manufacturer, but return
shipping would be free. We're trying to get the other facilities in our
healthcare system on board so we can maximize the discounts. There's
no minimum commitment on our parts, but it sure would encourage us
to buy from the vendor — it's almost like a loyalty program. Plus, we'd
get price protection for the 2-year contract term. OSM
Ms. Welliver (cwelliver@mainlinesurgery.com) is the director of nursing at
Main Line Surgery Center in Bala Cynwyd, Pa.
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