Risk Management

Some healthcare providers still do not consider pre-owned medical equipment suppliers as a source, perhaps because of a negative perception of the industry. At Ardus Medical, we try to alleviate these concerns by offering recourse - through binding warranties and agreements, Surety Bonding, and an arbitration process through IAMERS - in the event of a dispute.

IAMERS

We are a participating member of the International Association of Medical Equipment Remarketers (IAMERS). IAMERS, the FDA, and other companies like Ardus work together to assure healthcare providers that members and non-members alike adhere to strict compliance levels with regard to government regulations, quality assurance standards, and labeling. Equally as important, IAMERS grants membership only to those companies that have agreed in writing to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics.

This acts as complaint mechanism for clients. In the event of a dispute or default, the IAMERS Code of Ethics Committee arbitrates challenges brought forth by clients against members.

What organization does your current vendor belong to that allows you to challenge a dispute?

Surety Bonding

Bonding of projects in the construction industry had been a standard for years. Now, and as a first in the pre-owned medical equipment market, Ardus Medical offers surety bonding. As an enforcer of "so-called warranties", surety bonds are underwritten by "AAA" rated insurance companies that guarantee the customer that the vendor will perform according to the terms of the agreement.

If a default within the agreement occurs, the surety company will attempt to have the original vendor remedy the problem. If that effort fails, the surety company will remedy the problem itself or through an affiliated agent at a cost to the original vendor. For a minimal fee, the client now has recourse via a surety bond.

Anyone can offer or include a warranty, but is your warranty guaranteed? Is your vendor willing to take the risk of guaranteeing his/her work?

Warranty

All equipment that leaves our facility leaves in "Patient Ready" status. This means that the equipment has been tested, meets or exceeds all manufacturer specifications, and is ready for patient use. The equipment is tested on a device that performs various checks specific to each equipment type and model.

A hard copy documentation sheet is accompanied with each piece of equipment shipped, and we retain a copy on disk for device history purposes. In the event of equipment malfunction, we include warranties for all patient ready equipment that cover all parts and labor for the agreed- upon warranty period. For a nominal fee, extended warranties can also be purchased.