Introduction to the main options when sourcing equipment

Once you have decided what equipment to donate, you need to decide where to source it. Will you buy new equipment or try to source second-hand equipment that has been refurbished?

For complex equipment (e.g. an ECG machine), different manufacturers will offer machines that vary widely in cost and specification. Newer models may have more features, but also be significantly more expensive.

Some newer manufacturers (often based in India or China) will provide equipment at much lower prices, but with the drawback of lower quality and therefore a higher risk of breakdown.

Equipment designed specifically for low-resource settings may be more durable, but not have as many features as other models.

Options to consider when purchasing equipment

There are four main options to consider when making equipment purchases, and the best option for your project will depend on your specific circumstances:

1. New equipment from a big manufacturer

2. Second-hand or manufacturer refurbished equipment from a big manufacturer

3. Equipment produced for low-resource settings (often start-ups or NGOs)

4. New cheap equipment of inferior quality

Some general advantages and disadvantages of each approach are summarised in the table.

We will cover each option in more detail in the next activity.

Advantages and disadvantages of the four main approaches to sourcing medicinal equipment
Click to expand
_{© St George’s, University of London}

A screen readable PDF version is available to download.

Talking point

What do you think? Are there any advantages or disadvantages you can think of that we have not covered? Which option do you think would be best for a donation you are planning?