The procedures for the acquisition of new devices and/or the renewal of the already existing ones depend on a wide range of technological and economic considerations. Accurate assessment and evaluation can lead to multiple benefits. Acquisition or replacement of medical equipment must be documented by criteria such as:
- Analysis and evaluation of needs
- Feasibility studies (evaluation of clinical needs, and epidemiological, demographic and investment data)
- Appropriateness of technology (availability of adequate human resources in terms of skills to fully exploit technology, infrastructure, etc.)
- Equipment life cycle (equipment age, intensity of use, availability of spare parts and consumables, etc.)
- Cost Factors (direct and indirect costs, idle time, uptime, increased productivity, use of consumables etc.)
- Technological Factors (technology assessment, innovation, leadership)
Proper assessment of all the above parameters is the starting point upon which all subsequent stages (drafting specifications, evaluation of tenders, acceptance testing of equipment etc.) are based for a successful procurement program.
INBIT has the expertise and experience needed in order not only to achieve a successful planning but also to ensure the efficient implementation of a unit with reduced operating costs, which leads to long-term and important benefits from such an investment.
Recently participated in the WHO action in Greece, called under the “Strengthening Capacity for Universal Coverage (SCUC2) initiative”, under the Strengthening the central procurement system in the Greek health sector project:
- Briefing note describing the existing impediments and providing corresponding suggestions for the improvement of the overall process of specifications’ development for central procurement.
- Rationalizing distribution and utilization of high value capital medical equipment in Greece.