OSE_1212_part2_Layout 1 12/5/12 9:53 AM Page 117
E N D O S C O P E
R E P R O C E S S I N G
units is not
uncommon.
You may
be shocked
at reprocessing's true
costs, such
as filter
changes and
preventive
NUMBERS GAME Be sure an AER's capacity meshes with your scope inventory
and caseload.
maintenance, which can easily eat away at your bottom line, but don't always
opt for the least expensive option in order to save some money on the
front end. What may appear to be the more economical choice might not
be when you factor in the cost of the disinfectant the machine uses. Keep
in mind that the more expensive disinfectants and high-tech AERs could
lead to faster cycle times, quicker scope turnarounds and potentially
adding more revenue-producing cases to your facility's schedule. In the
end, you get what you pay for. The more expensive reprocessors cost
more because they do more for you. While pricier, the newest options are
ultimately worth the added investment. OSM
Mr. Collins (collinj@ccf.org) is practice manager for the department of gastroenterology and hepatology at the Cleveland Clinic.
D E C E M B E R 2012 | O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E
1 1 7
