About Lee Leichter Expertise Manufacturing, Outsourcing, Regulatory (FDA), Quality systems and problems, Exporting, Start-up Issues, strategic planning, Distribution, etc.
Experience Employment history: Over 25 years in the industry
Expert: Lee Leichter Date: 1/18/2005 Subject: Starting a Medical Supplies business
Question I have worked in the Medical field for 13 years as a Biomedical Equipment Technician, I am wanting to start a business in my small town, it does not have a Medical Supplies store but does have a Hospital, I have a wife and sister that are going to nursing school and I was wondering if you could give me some information on how to get started?
Answer Dear Mr. Cole,
Sorry for the delay in responding. I have been traveling extensively this month.
There are several commericial options in the Medical Supply business. A retail store selling medical supplies is one of them.. Most of these stores are small operations run by local businessmen. The other services that can be provided are home Oxygen services and supplies and mobility equipment. Many of these operation are only able to survive with these addiitonal services.
As a biomedical technician, you also may be able to provide maintenance and repair services for equipment from doctor's offices and hosptials.
This is not an easy business and requires a significant commitment to administrative services to assure reimpursement and payment.
The best way to get started is to visit several of these stores in other towns and discuss their operations and issues. They will be the greatest resource you will find.
They can also provide you with contacts for inventory suppliers and possible Small business loan sources.
