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TO BUY OR NOT TO BUY

ASSESS THESE THREE FACTORS WHEN CONSIDERING USED EQUIPMENT ONLINE

KEVIN GEE, O.D.

OBTAINING REFURBISHED, or used, equipment is one way to help offset the “sometimes” high costs of equipment acquisition. When it comes to chairs and stands, getting them reupholstered and repainted can make these items look almost brand new. However, when it comes to diagnostic equipment, one should assess three factors before buying:

1 EXTENDED WARRANTY

Unlike original pieces of equipment, used devices often do not come with warranties. If possible, protect your investment and inquire with the original vendor if you are able to purchase an extended warranty on the equipment. This may require an initial service visit to ensure that the product has the most current software and hardware updates necessary to be in compliance with the extended warranty. It is suggested that the seller actually go through this process, and send the buyer the service report. The price of the service call can be added to the total equipment cost. This is the best way to ensure that you are buying a piece of equipment that actually works and can be placed under warranty.

2 OPERATING SYSTEM

Used equipment, in my opinion, exists for one of two reasons, either someone’s practice went under or new technology is available. Many of the diagnostic equipment we use are based on Microsoft Windows operating systems, including Windows XP. Microsoft no longer supports Windows XP, making devices that use this operating system susceptible to security breaches.

The bottom line: Assess the device’s operating system before opening your wallet. In most instances, the service call that we discussed earlier should uncover any potential problems and, in many cases, may include an update to the newest operating system that the equipment’s hardware can operate with.

3 FLOOR MODELS

Keep in mind that many vendors are willing to provide both a warranty and discounted price to those who ask about purchasing floor model devices seen and “lightly used” at optometric trade shows, such as Optometry’s Meeting and Vision Expo. These models usually have all of the bells and whistles or “upgrades” that are available. Once again, be sure to inquire about a warranty prior to purchase.

BUYER BEWARE

Anytime you are purchasing from a business or individual, remember the phrase “Buyer beware.” If the business or individual is stating the purchase is “as is,” they are unwilling to give information or, at a bare minimum, a live test drive of the device, be wary of the purchase. There is little recourse if you purchase a device and then find out that it is outdated, cannot be upgraded, uses an out-of-date operating system or doesn’t work in the manner that you are anticipating. Armed with research that the instrumentation you’re interested in will be beneficial to your patients and practice and keeping the three aforementioned factors in mind, you can definitely find a “diamond in the rough” device. Good luck! OM

DR. GEE practices in Houston and is an assistant clinical professor at the University of Houston College of Optometry. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, an ABO Diplomate and an OCRT member. Also, he’s on Allergan’s advisory board and is a consultant for Weave Communications. Email him at drgee@geeeyecare.com, or visit tinyurl.com/comment to comment.