When faced with a hospital bed situation, whether for post-surgery recovery, long-term treatment, or aging care, one of the first questions that many families pose is: Should we rent or buy?
On the face of it, renting a hospital bed seems like the more reasonable option. However, a purchase may prove a much better investment in the long run, depending on your needs. First, we must shed light on the advantages and disadvantages of both to properly analyze the options.
Consider When to Rent a Hospital Bed
- Renting comes handy for short-term rental needs. In other words, if the bed is going to be needed for days or a few weeks, say, through an operation recovery process, renting is definitely cheaper upfront.
Renting Advantages: - Low Upfront Cost: No large upfront costs to invest.
- Included Maintenance: Maintenance and repairs are at the expense of the rental company and replacements are provided if needed.
- Flexibility: You can return the bed or exchange it for an upgrade if you no longer need it.
- Short-Term Use: If recovery or temporary injury.
Drawbacks:
- Monthly Cost Over Time: After a long enough time has passed, the monthly payments can add up to a large amount of money.
- Limited Customization: The rental bed shows limited capabilities for the latest features or comfort levels.
- Used Equipment: Rented beds are often pre-used, which even diminishes their quality or appearance.
When Is It More Cost-Effective to Buy the Hospital Bed?
When the bed is going to be used for an extended period of time, i.e., for chronic illnesses, old age, or permanent disability, buying would mean an economically viable alternative.
Advantages of Buying:
- Lower Cost in the Long Run: Buying involves a one-time purchase; hence no ongoing charges are paid as with rental fees.
- Exclusive Ownership: You select the model, amenities, and simply the type of mattress.
- Adaptation and Convenience: This includes a rather lengthy list of possibilities; electrical functions, heating features, something beyond electrically adjustable mattresses.
- Resell or Repurpose: You can either attempt to resell or repurpose the bed with another family member if the hospital bed is no longer needed.
Considerations:
- First Come, First Serve… Usually More Costly: Upfront cost is usually the bigger part.
- You Will Have to Find Maintenance: Repairs or service required? It will be down to you to pay for it; unless it is covered by warranty.
- Time to Find Storage: If the bed may not be used for some time, you have to find a place to store the bed.
So, what is a more economical decision?
- It depends on how long you will be using it:
- Renting is the more economical choice for short term uses (less than 3-6 months.
- When using long term (more than six months or permanently) buying will almost always be the more economical option.
Here is a quick example:
If you rented a hospital bed for $200 a month, after 12 months you would pay $2,400, which is likely more than the average costs for a great new bed with all the amenities.
Conclusion
Renting a hospital bed offers a convenient option for the short term, but purchasing a hospital bed can be a better value for long-term needs. By assessing your situation, talking to the health care professional, and considering the cost, you can determine what makes the most sense for you. Either renting or buying will ultimately allow you to provide safety and comfort to the patient, which is what is important.
Would you like us to help you make the decision? Contact our team today, and we will be more than happy to help with your individual questions.