What Independent Clinics Should Ask Before Committing to a Diagnostic Platform

The veterinary diagnostic equipment market is mature, and most of the major platforms have polished sales processes. Here's a direct list of questions worth asking before you commit to anything.

About Economics

• What is my total cost per test at my projected monthly volume, including consumables, QC materials, and equipment amortization?
• Is there a volume minimum? What happens if I don't meet it?
• Are consumables prices fixed for the duration of my agreement, or can they change?

About Commitment

• What is the minimum term?
• What are the early termination provisions?
• What happens at end of term — do I own the equipment, return it, or renew?
• Am I required to source consumables exclusively from you?

About Support

• Who handles service? What is the response time commitment?
• Is service handled remotely or does it require a field technician? Remote resolution is significantly faster.
• Is there a loaner or replacement unit available if my instrument is down?
• Is support U.S.-based?
• Does the distributor proactively monitor my instrument, or do I have to call when something goes wrong?

About Fit

• Can I run an evaluation unit in my practice before committing?
• What species and sample types is this instrument validated for?
• What does the QC and daily maintenance protocol look like?

About the Relationship

• Who is my point of contact after the sale?
• How long has this product been commercially available in the U.S. veterinary market?

These questions aren't about being difficult — they're about making a well-informed decision. Any credible vendor or distributor should be able to answer them clearly.