If you are a biomedical engineering technician, you might be responsible for finding and buying medical imaging parts for the biomedical equipment that you are in charge of maintaining. As you know, there is large number of providers of medical imaging parts available to choose between. The question is, how do you choose a medical imaging parts supplier?

Inventory � Most importantly, whatever medical imaging parts distributor you decide to work with must carry replacement pieces for the equipment you maintain. The majority of vendors have on-line supply lists that will help you figure out which suppliers meet most of your medical imaging parts needs.

Cost � Cost isn't a straightforward issue. If you hunt for the lowest cost, you may find yourself with medical imaging parts that are inferior in quality. Yet, you certainly do not want to get singed by paying top prices. There are two things you ought to consider. First, is the medical imaging part inherently complex so that you ought to apply a �get what you pay for� principle and buy premium? Or, is the part rather simple so that the �plain vanilla� low cost version will do? Second, if the total amount of money you will spend is substantial enough to warrant the effort, look at all the prices in the marketplace. If there is a small range, you will probably be charged just about the same price everywhere you go, so purchase the medical imaging part based on other factors. If there are dramatic highs and lows in the price range, you must find out why these differences exist. For instance, is the inexpensive supplier able to keep his overhead so low that everything is a bargain? Or is he selling a low-quality product?

Warranty � What kind of warranty does the supplier offer? If medical imaging parts are refurbished, who is refurbishing? Is there ISO-based quality control?

Return/Exchange policy � Will you be able to return a part that has been incorrectly ordered? Are you required to return it within a certain amount of time? Can you get your money back or is it exchange only?

Shipping � Shipping and handling costs are sometimes the veiled high cost element of the purchase price. Be sure you understand all S&H fees ahead of time. Also, can the company assure you that you will be able to receive medical imaging parts overnight?

Customer service � Will the company help you to resolve any problems, whatever they may be? Is their customer service available 24/7? Are there BMETs available to help you trouble shoot medical imaging parts issues if necessary?

Use this checklist to evaluate vendors. Choose 2-3 vendors that are reliable. Do not depend solely on one vendor for all your needs; keep in mind the �all my eggs in one basket� rule.

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