I am interested in the idea of the “zero-budget department”, whereby the in-house hospital biomed department (or whatever you want to call it) is allocated only a limited amount for basic overhead and generic parts, service consumables and the like. Such a department would be funded almost entirely (or, even entirely) by billing the user (customer) for all work carried out, just as outside commercial biomed shops do.
In this way, the tension between biomed and the hospital departments (that we all know so well) may be reduced (or eliminated altogether), as the user then has a choice about how her equipment is serviced and repaired. She can use an outside vendor if she wishes (the in-house biomed would generally be cheaper, we hope). If she wants “instant service” (hand-holding, or whatever), she can pay extra for “premium service”. Rates can be negotiated for all forms of service (night-time call-outs etc.). In this way, the user gets what she pays for (and only that – it’s tough in the real world!).
All parts and consumables allocated to each job would be charged for, of course. Again, the user would be given a choice to out-source expensive parts from elsewhere, if preferred.
Similarly, PM would be down to the user. She can arrange for it to be done when she wants it done, and by whomever she chooses. Or, not at all if she wants to take responsibility for that. Biomed would simply post reminders when PM falls due.
It’s all about getting the user to take responsibility for her equipment, and giving biomed the chance to grow, and become more efficient, by adopting business practices. And even a way of retaining bright young techs., as they each aspire to become the manager of this exciting enterprise!
I am aware that some EBME departments within the NHS already operate such a scheme. So, does it work? How do you get on?
Personally, I would have thought that this is the “way forward” for NHS biomed departments. Anybody else have any comments about this?
If you think in terms of a better way, you will always find one.
