09/05/23
A Guide for Healthcare Equipment Managers
In healthcare environments, downtime is minimal, making a seamless move a challenging endeavor. Achieving this goal demands a comprehensive plan, meticulous timing, and execution by a logistics company experienced in handling delicate, high-value equipment. This guide delves into crucial considerations healthcare equipment managers must ponder when relocating their facility’s medical equipment. Let’s explore tips for moving medical equipment in more depth.
#1 Experience Matters Most
Experience is paramount in handling medical equipment. It is imperative to seek a company with a proven track record in successfully transporting healthcare equipment. Movers possessing such experience comprehend the necessity of safely disassembling, packing, transporting, and reassembling fragile, high-value equipment. Reviewing testimonials and case studies and conversing with past customers can provide insight into the level of care they offer.
#2 Develop a Comprehensive Moving Plan
Each medical facility relocation project is unique. A reputable moving company should meticulously inventory each piece of equipment and craft a comprehensive plan outlining the steps for their safe relocation. This customized approach minimizes mishandling and damage during transportation. A detailed move plan should address various aspects:
- Identify official points of contact and their contact details
- List items to be moved
- Evaluate the pre-move condition of each piece
- Determine any special handling requirements or necessary training
- Specify items requiring disassembly and packing
- Consider temperature control needs
- Detail packing and transportation methods
- Schedule each phase of the move
- Estimate the duration of each phase
- Identify crucial deadlines
- Assess the need for additional insurance, permits, clearances, HAZMAT, or documentation
- Ensure compliance with regulations and standards
- Plan equipment placement
- Evaluate the post-move condition of each piece
- Designate personnel to sign off on the completed move
- What is the condition of each piece post-mov
#3 Keep Lines of Communication Open
Similar to the constant updates received from medical professionals, maintaining open communication with the moving company is vital. Reviewing the moving plan and timelines beforehand and staying in close contact with the moving team allows for swift adjustments as circumstances change. Regular updates on move progress and availability of key equipment pieces aid in minimizing downtime and preserving patient care continuity.
#4 Pre- and Post-Move Support & Technical Assistance
One of the most important reasons to use an experienced moving company is that relocating medical equipment involves much more than transporting it from one place to another. You need a company that will inventory each piece and track its location throughout the process. Some equipment will be extremely sensitive and require expert packing skills to ensure its safety. Disassembly and reassembly of these and other pieces will also need to be handled with care. If there is any troubleshooting needed, it is important to have a team that can manage this function as well. This level of support is essential for equipment that facilitates patient care.
Interstate Logistics for Seamless Medical Equipment Moves
Now that you know how important it is to select a moving company that has experience handling sensitive medical equipment, we’d like to offer you a solution. Interstate Logistics has been helping federal, state, and local governments, universities, and commercial enterprises move for more than 80 years. Interstate attributes its long-standing success to its commitment to delivering quality, treating people with respect, and exhibiting outstanding professionalism. To learn more about Interstate Logistics’ Healthcare Solutions, visit us on the web or call us today at 800.745.6683.
