After multiple Epic implementations, JACO, Inc. has been able to learn, adapt and evolve to offer its customers a successful launch process and long-term commitment that delivers impressive ROI (return on investment). This time we’ll talk about evaluating a Mobile Cart manufacturer’s warranty, and how manufacturers support their products:
Warranty and Service Commitment: Healthcare IT professionals who have been managing mobile cart fleets since their inception know well the additional expense and complexity of service investments associated with mobile cart purchases. In the past, some mobile carts manufacturers and technology providers bundled expensive service contracts to maintain a fleet of carts. Modern-day power systems and advanced battery technologies have made mobile carts more reliable and less costly to maintain.
Mobile carts that operate with Sealed Lead Acid (SLA)- based power systems require more attention and sometimes frequent battery replacement due the short cycle life of SLA chemistry. New battery technologies utilizing Lithium chemistry are more robust and do not require routine service, so beware of the company trying to sell non-value-added onsite service. If you’re selecting a durable product and the manufacturer’s warranty and commitment to the product are strong enough, save those dollars for additional investment rather than paying for the ‘what-if’ scenario that may never come.
Most manufacturers perform a final inspection on their products before shipment, but some quality issues may escape notice and could cause an electrical failure after a system is deployed. To ensure a trouble-free Epic implementation, collaborate with your manufacturer to prepare a material reserve program that includes readily available back-up components.
Manufacturers often provide very similar service commitments with regard to service call turnaround, reserve material planning, and technical trouble shooting. To evaluate a company’s commitment to service, get a few references from health systems that have worked with the manufacturer for an extended period. After all, service reputation is formed over time and is more than a promise in a brief service document. Be sure to review the warranties of the organizations with which you do business; look for limited liability statements to determine the precise coverage as well as your responsibilities for adhering to the terms and conditions.
Check out Parts 1 and 2 of this series and be sure to subscribe to our blog to get updates when they go live.
